The Sox have had only one $100 million player in their history – Manny Ramirez. The current ownership has never awarded a player that much money.

That will change once the Sox sign the newly acquired Adrian Gonzalez – the parameters for Gonzalez's extension are seven years, $154 million, according to a major league source.

But Crawford, in the wake of the Werth signing, also could move into the $150 million range. He is 29 - two years younger than Werth - and more accomplished.

So, rather than sign Crawford, the Sox could trade for a right-handed hitting outfielder such as the Nationals’ Josh Willingham, or focus more on relievers.

The Sox currently have eight outfielders on their 40-man roster, including J.D. Drew, Jacoby Ellsbury, Mike Cameron and Ryan Kalish.

One option that won't be considered, according to a source: Moving Kevin Youkilis to left field to accommodate the return of free-agent third baseman Adrian Beltre.

Such a scenario would be plausible if the market for Beltre collapsed and the Sox wanted to sign him at a reduced rate. But the Red Sox are intent on playing Youkilis at third following the addition of Gonzalez.

Beltre’s asking price, according to one source: Five years, $85 million.

-Ken Rosenthal

1 Comment:

so i guess you were as surprised as anyone when the sox signed crawford to that 7 year deal?